Online BS Curriculum

The Bachelor of Sciences degree in Sustainable Food and Farming requires students to take courses in four categories:a. University General Education Requirements (45 credits)
b. Core Required Classes (26-31 credits)
c. Agricultural Science and Practice Classes (24 credits)
d. Professional Electives (20 credits)
The following is a breakdown of which classes are currently available online and which are in the planning stage.

1. University General Education Requirements
The University GenEd requirements are:

There are online options for all of the above required General Education classes. In addition, some students will transfer courses from previous college work or may fulfill these requirements at a community college.

2. Core Required Classes
These classes are required of students earning a Bachelor of Sciences degree in the Stockbridge School of Agriculture. There is some flexibility depending on a student’s career goals and previous course work.

3. Agricultural Science and Practice Classes

Students must take 24 credits in agricultural science and practice. These courses may be taken in the Stockbridge School of Agriculture or other departments with approval of the adviser.
• Review credit break-down below:

4. Professional Electives

Students working closely with an academic adviser are encouraged to select professional elective courses from the major or other UMass majors which help them move toward their own career goals. General Education classes, one credit Stockbridge classes, transfer courses, independent study and practicum classes may be used to fulfill this requirement. A total of 18 credits of approved courses are required with at least one course from each category below:• Biophysical Systems
• Economic Systems
• Social Systems

5. Internships or Practicum

Students are encouraged to take up to the maximum of 18 credits as Internships or Practicum which may be counted toward Professional Electives. These may be farm internships, working with non-profits or businesses, or study abroad. Stockbridge is committed to helping students gain practical experience as part of their major area of study. By combining your classroom education with experience in the field, your practicum/internship should be a highlight of your Stockbridge education. Every internship is different and one size does not fit all! The requirements have flexibility. If you are working to establish your own farm and your life situation is such that you are not able to complete an independent study away from home, we can find a “residential solution.”

Summary

To graduate, students must take the following minimum number of classes:
• University classes = 120 credits
College of Natural Science classes (includes Stockbridge) = 60 credits
Stockbridge School of Agriculture classes = 30 credits

Questions?

Fill out our contact form or call one of our advisors at 413-545-2222 to ask your questions, schedule a tour, or get more information!